A former Royal Navy servicewoman who served in the second world war was 'joyfully brought to tears' during a special ceremony celebrating her 100th birthday.
Margaret Taylor, from the Greenacres area of Oldham, reached the extraordinary milestone on Tuesday (August 1) and was celebrated by the borough's dignitaries and military staff in a special ceremony.
Mrs Taylor served in the Woman's Royal Naval Service from the age of 16.
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She then contributed to the second world war effort in the Outer Hebrides in a logistics role which involved overseeing supplies that went aboard naval ships.
The now 100-year-old said: "The role was one you couldn't afford to get wrong", given the drastic consequences it would have had to those serving at sea.
After the war in 1949, she tied the knot with her husband, John Taylor, and the newlyweds started married life together in their home on Godson Street.
Her husband died in 2003 after more than 54 years of marriage, and Mrs Taylor now lives on the same street as her son, Rob, and his partner, Patricia.
Mrs Taylor also worked as a dinner lady at Fitton Hill Secondary Modern until the age of 60.
Celebrating her life and achievements, the special get together was hosted by the Mayor of Oldham at the Mayor's Parlour.
Mrs Taylor's family and members of the Royal British Legion warmly greeted the veteran at the event which brought 'tears of joy' to her eyes.
Mayor Councillor Zahid Chauhan then presented her with a birthday card and a bouquet of flowers as they enjoyed conversations about her life over a cup of tea and some cake.
When asked what it was like to reach 100 years old, Mrs Taylor simply replied: "I'm speechless and overwhelmed" and advised guests that "clean living" was the best way to live so long.
She added: "If you've got children, they're a labour of love and they make you happy.
"They give you many tears, but they also give you lots of happiness, so enjoy every moment."
The party then continued on in the nearby Tommyfield Inn where her son presented her with a birthday telegram from King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
The card read: "My wife and I are so pleased to know that you are celebrating your one-hundredth birthday on 1 August 2023.
"This brings our warmest congratulations and heartfelt good wishes on such a special occasion."
Reflecting on the day, Cllr Chauhan, said: "I am honoured to have shared this amazing occasion with Margaret.
"It was so wonderful to meet with her in person and hear many of the great memories she has enjoyed over the years, and I'm sure there are many more to come."
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